Phrase guide

have one's ducks in a row

verb · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

To be organized; to have one's affairs in order; specifically, to have a multiperson effort coordinated towards the exact same goal.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic

Examples

  • Wouldn't it be nice to have our ducks in a row and not have to search for the papers every time we needed them?

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

Perhaps from the image of ducklings following their mother in an orderly line. See also line up one's ducks.